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Weight Loss – The Exercise Component Of Losing Weight

Once you have decided on a dietary program to lose weight your next step is to begin an exercise program, which, in addition to helping your weight loss efforts, has many other health benefits. Regular exercise is a big plus for your, cardiovascular system, your joints and it just plain makes you feel better.

Medical and fitness experts know that people who exercise regularly and maintain a level of activity have better overall health and spend less time in the doctor's office. And those who exercise often are less susceptible to illnesses such as colds and flu. They're also less likely to have muscle aches and sprains plus they have better stamina, a stronger immune system and good endurance.

People who exercise remain active during the day and are more productive because they have sharper mental performance and less fatigue. Regular daily exercise will give you a better and more restful sleep at night and it will do wonders for your cardiovascular system. To get the most out of your exercise program your routine should consist of both aerobic and anaerobic exercises.

If you're on a weight loss program, boosting your metabolism with aerobic exercise will accelerate the process. Some common examples of aerobic exercise include, running, jogging or brisk walking. If you have access to a pool, swimming is one of the best exercises because it involves more muscles. Other choices are cycling on a regular or stationary bike and rowing.

One of the simplest means of performing aerobic exercise is walking. Even a 30-minute walk 3 times a week is beneficial. If you can afford to join a local gym you can get recommendations from a trainer as to what exercises would be best for you so that you don't start off doing too much too soon. If you can't join a gym right now there are other inexpensive options such as buying used or pre-owned exercise equipment and working out in your home. Check the classified ads in your local newspaper for used equipment.

The ideal duration for aerobic exercise is 45 minutes daily. But, if you only have 10 to 20 minutes, then it's better than doing nothing at all. Make it a habit of performing daily exercises just like brushing your teeth and taking a shower. The lower limit of your heart rate can be calculated by subtracting your age from 220 and multiplying the result by .6. The upper limit is calculated by multiplying the result by .8.

Weight lifting is an example of anaerobic exercise and this is done to tone and strengthen the muscles. As you build muscle tissue you are building lean body mass, which will burn more calories. Other benefits include a better appearance, increased confidence and the reduced risk of osteoporosis.

Resistance training can be done in a gym or health club. If time and money are a concern another option is to buy a few sets of dumbbells and do the weight training at home. The ideal duration for anaerobic exercise is a 20-30 minute session done three times a week. The best way to get started is to identify your goals and have a comprehensive exercise and weight training routine.

Lastly, be sure to consult with your doctor if you are fit for weight training and other exercise programs.

By: Bob Storrs

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Do you want to learn more about how to lose weight with protein shakes? Get my free report: www.ProteinPowerWeightLoss.com/How-to-Lose-Weight-With-Protein-Shakes.html Bob Storrs has worked in wellness field since 1994 and has counseled people on how to use natural products and supplements to lose weight and have a healthier lifestyle. NOTE: This article may be reprinted as long as it is not changed and includes the author's bio.

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